---Rivera is growing more concerned about whether middle linebacker Jon Beason will be ready for the opening game at Arizona. Beason, who has never missed a regular season game, has yet to practice due to tendinitis in his left Achilles. Rivera said the Panthers have three other linebackers who can play the position if Beason is not ready - Dan Conner, Omar Gaither, and Thomas Williams.

I wouldn't call Connor a scrub but like Greensboro said he can't cover the field the same way Beason can. I feel like this has to be pretty painful because Beason doesnt strike me as the type of player who sits out for nothing.

shaping up to be a rough early season, but that was to be expected (albeit for different reasons). injuries bite us every year, at least with beason it hit a position we at least have a decent backup in, and at least it isn't so serious he's out for extended time in the regular season yet.

I wouldn't call Connor a scrub but like Greensboro said he can't cover the field the same way Beason can. I feel like this has to be pretty painful because Beason doesnt strike me as the type of player who sits out for nothing.

:iagree: but Connor doesn't look like the same player from last year, slower and losing containment in his lane , which scares me